Moab Utah Trails: Onion Creek Road

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Onion Creek Road

The Onion Creek Road is one of Moab, Utah's best trails for viewing beautiful scenery. As you travel, you'll enjoy views of the Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountains, particularly from various points along the trail, although the path itself does not end at the Fisher Valley Ranch. The trail is popular with 4WD vehicles and some high-clearance cars. While it is not described as 'well maintained' like a paved road, encounters with livestock such as cows are possible due to the rural surroundings.

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The route finding is easy, and the trail surface is a winding dirt road with many creek crossings, some rocky stream beds, and is generally easy to moderate in difficulty. This mountain biking and 4x4 trail offers some of the most beautiful views of red rock, so be sure to bring your camera. The trail boasts between 17 and 27 creek/stream crossings, with views overlooking the Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountains, not ending at Fisher Valley Ranch. The climb is moderate and continuous with scenic vistas of Fisher Towers and Castle Valley. The trail is popular with 4WD vehicles and some high-clearance cars, and encounters with livestock are possible.

Trail Specifics

  • Distance: Approximately 11.5 miles one way, making a round trip about 23 miles if done fully
  • Time: Anywhere from 2 to 6 hours
  • Difficulty: Technically easy with a few stream crossings, moderate and continuous uphill climb
  • Trail Surface: Gravel and dirt road, rocky stream bed crossings

Directions to Trailhead

Drive north on US 191 from downtown Moab until you reach the Colorado River Bridge. Turn right onto UT 128 and drive approximately 20 miles northeast. Look for the sign for Fisher Valley Ranch, which is about a mile before the Fisher Towers Road turnoff. Turn right at this sign. Park on the side of the road and begin your ride up Onion Creek Road. After 10 miles, once the road begins to flatten out, turn around and ride back down.

Maps & Tours

  • Pick up a detailed map or guide book at the Moab Information Center on the corner of Main and Center Streets.
  • If you are new to mountain biking, or to the area, consider Joining a Guided Bike Tour.

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